Top Republicans and Democrats remained at an impasse Sunday as the government shutdown continued, with both sides blaming each other while federal workers, military families and millions of Americans braced for growing impacts.
Democrats are pushing for health care concessions before agreeing to reopen the government. House Speaker Mike Johnson countered that Democrats have repeatedly voted to keep the government closed, calling the situation “real pain for real people.”
Trump Fires Workers, Vows to Pay Military
President Donald Trump began firing federal workers rather than furloughing them, marking a sharp break from past shutdown practices. At least 4,000 civil servants were notified of layoffs on Oct. 10, with more expected. Military members were set to miss their first paycheck on Oct. 15, but Trump announced the Pentagon found funds to keep paying roughly 1.3 million active-duty personnel.
Smithsonian Museums and National Zoo Go Dark
The Smithsonian Institution’s 21 museums and the National Zoo closed Sunday, halting operations and taking popular animal livestreams offline. Officials said animals will continue to receive care, but no regular updates will be provided until the shutdown ends.
Marathons and National Parks Impacted
The Marine Corps Marathon scheduled for Oct. 26 in Washington, D.C., will proceed, but organizers are monitoring the situation closely. Other races have already been canceled. National parks remain open but with limited services and no entrance fee collection, as seen at Joshua Tree National Park.
Social Security and Food Aid Continue
Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid payments will continue despite staff furloughs. SNAP and WIC food assistance programs will operate as long as funding allows, according to the USDA.
Congress and President Still Paid
The Constitution protects the pay of the president and members of Congress during shutdowns. Trump has said he will again donate his salary. Some lawmakers announced they will forgo pay during the funding lapse.
Education Department Hit by Layoffs
Roughly 20% of the Department of Education’s workforce was cut on Oct. 11, reducing support services nationwide. Most teachers continue to be paid through state and local funding, but schools relying on federal aid — especially those on military bases and tribal lands — are being hit harder.
Public Opinion Tilts Against GOP
A recent Economist/YouGov poll found 41% of Americans blame Republicans and Trump for the shutdown, compared to 30% who blame Democrats. Among those aware of the GOP’s congressional majority, blame toward Republicans rose to 49%.
Thousands More Layoffs Expected
More than 4,000 federal employees have already received layoff notices, affecting agencies from Commerce to Treasury. The Education Department’s Office of Special Education was among those eliminated.
Senate Considers Next Steps
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said another vote on a temporary funding bill will take place Oct. 14, but it still lacks enough Democratic support to pass. Some Republicans are floating abolishing the legislative filibuster to end the impasse, but Thune opposes the move.
House Democrats to Convene
House Democrats plan to meet Oct. 14 to strategize on reopening the government. They continue to push for restoring Medicaid funding and Affordable Care Act subsidies as part of any funding deal.
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